After spending a thrilling week in Siargao, I was ready for a change of pace. My journey through the Philippines took me south to the Visayas, a region known for its diverse landscapes, beautiful beaches, and incredible wildlife. While Siargao is the surfing mecca of the Philippines, the Visayas offered a different kind of adventure—one that combined the thrill of chasing lesser-known waves with exploring the region’s stunning biodiversity.
The Visayas is made up of several islands, each with its own unique culture and attractions. My base for the next few days was Cebu, one of the larger islands and a gateway to many incredible experiences. Cebu is a bustling province, but it also offers a range of natural beauty and outdoor activities, from diving to waterfalls to, of course, surfing.
I had heard about some lesser-known surf spots along Cebu’s coastline, and I was excited to check them out. My first stop was the coastal town of San Remigio, a quiet place far from the tourist hubs. The waves here were smaller and more laid-back than the powerful reef breaks of Siargao, making it a perfect spot for some mellow, enjoyable surf sessions. The waves were consistent, but the vibe was completely different from the intensity of Cloud 9. Here, I could focus on honing my technique, enjoying the ride, and connecting with the local surf scene.
The surf culture in the Visayas, especially in places like San Remigio, is much more low-key. I found myself sharing waves with just a handful of local surfers, most of whom had grown up on the island. It was refreshing to be away from the competitive crowds, allowing for a more personal and relaxed surfing experience. After a day of riding waves, I spent time talking with the locals, learning about their lives, and how they balance surfing with their everyday work. For them, surfing wasn’t just a sport—it was a way of life, a deep connection to the ocean that shaped their identity.
As much as I enjoyed the waves in San Remigio, one of the most memorable experiences in Cebu was swimming with the whale sharks in Oslob. This small coastal town is known for its eco-tourism, and I couldn’t pass up the chance to see these majestic creatures up close. Whale sharks are the largest fish in the ocean, and despite their size, they are gentle giants, feeding primarily on plankton.
Swimming with whale sharks is an awe-inspiring experience. As I jumped into the water and saw one of these massive creatures gliding beneath me, I was struck by their grace and size. It’s an almost surreal experience to be in the presence of such a powerful animal. At the same time, I was mindful of the importance of choosing an eco-friendly tour operator that prioritizes the well-being of the whale sharks and their environment. I made sure to follow all guidelines to minimize human impact, such as keeping a respectful distance and avoiding any physical contact with the sharks. This ensured the experience was as responsible as it was breathtaking.
Beyond surfing and whale sharks, Cebu also offered a rich array of natural beauty inland. One of the highlights was visiting the stunning Kawasan Falls. The waterfalls are a popular destination for canyoning and swimming, and after a hot day in the sun, the cool, turquoise waters were incredibly refreshing. I joined a group of adventurers for a day of trekking, swimming, and jumping off cliffs into the natural pools. It was a completely different kind of thrill compared to surfing, but just as exhilarating.
The wildlife in the Visayas wasn’t limited to the sea. During my time in Cebu, I also took a trip to Bohol, another island in the Visayas, known for its unique geological formations and diverse ecosystems. One of the most famous natural landmarks in Bohol is the Chocolate Hills, a landscape of over a thousand cone-shaped hills that turn brown in the dry season, resembling rows of chocolate mounds. The view was otherworldly, and it was hard to believe such a place existed in real life.
While the Chocolate Hills are an impressive sight, what made Bohol truly special for me was the chance to see the tarsier, one of the world’s smallest primates. These tiny, nocturnal creatures are native to Southeast Asia, and seeing them in their natural habitat was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. With their huge eyes and delicate frames, tarsiers are fascinating animals, and the conservation centers in Bohol are doing important work to protect them and their habitat. Spending time observing them in the quiet, shaded forest made me appreciate the biodiversity that the Philippines has to offer, both in the water and on land.
My time in the Visayas was not just about chasing waves—it was about embracing the full range of experiences that this region had to offer. From the tranquil surf spots of Cebu to swimming with whale sharks in Oslob and exploring Bohol’s natural wonders, the Visayas opened my eyes to a different side of the Philippines. The surf here may not be as famous as in Siargao, but the quieter, less commercialized atmosphere was a welcome change.
What stood out most during these days was the balance between the thrill of adventure and the serenity of nature. Surfing in the Visayas felt more intimate, with fewer people and less pressure, allowing me to truly appreciate the environment and the people around me. And when I wasn’t surfing, I was immersed in the natural beauty and wildlife that make the Philippines such a unique destination.
As I wrapped up my time in the Visayas, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for the experiences I’d had. The region had given me more than just waves—it had shown me the importance of slowing down, of connecting with nature, and of respecting the incredible biodiversity that makes the Philippines so special. Whether surfing the gentle waves of San Remigio, swimming alongside whale sharks, or standing in awe at the Chocolate Hills, my days in the Visayas were filled with unforgettable moments that will stay with me long after I leave.
